Next-generation Audi A4 expected to receive new powertrains

2014 Audi A4

Handout, Audi

by
Nick Tragianis | May 7, 2014

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The next-generation Audi A4 is expected to gain a handful of tweaks when it rolls out as early as next year.

According to Auto Motor und Sport (hat tip to AutoGuide for an English translation), the Audi A4 will receive Volkswagen‘s 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, first seen in the Passat BlueMotion Concept. Producing 150 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, the engine features active cylinder management, allowing it to run on two cylinders under lighter loads. In the Passat, that translates to an impressive 43 miles per gallon.

As well as the 1.4-litre turbo-four, the report suggests the 2015 A4 will be offered with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, aimed at the BMW ActiveHybrid 3 and the upcoming plug-in hybrid Mercedes-Benz C-Class. In this application, Volkswagen’s ubiquitous 2.0-litre turbo-four will likely be pared to an electric motor, lending the A4 an electric range of up to 50 kilometres.

Styling tweaks, redesigned headlights and tail lights and new infotainment options are expected to round out the changes. There is no word yet as to whether or not these changes will trickle over to the A5 coupe and convertible.